Even though society needs altruists, cynical scientists have long wondered why people should be unselfish.
What is the point in helping unrelated others if it does nothing for you or your kin?
Certainly, it is smart to trust others: highly intelligent people are better at overcoming caution and being more trusting and generous to strangers.
But being trusting is smart in all sorts of other ways: these 10 studies show generosity is far more than a moral choice — it acts as a catalyst.
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Author: Dr Jeremy Dean
Psychologist, Jeremy Dean, PhD is the founder and author of PsyBlog. He holds a doctorate in psychology from University College London and two other advanced degrees in psychology. He has been writing about scientific research on PsyBlog since 2004. View all posts by Dr Jeremy Dean